Backgrounders

Documents in this section offer background information on promoting mental health, health and social policy, and the delivery of services and supports for persons with mental health conditions. Background documents are intended to provide information and research that can inform options for next steps.

Housing is a basic human right and requirement for good health. According to the United Nations’ Universal Declaration Of Human Rights the right to housing is protected under international law, and Canada has endorsed such rights guaranteeing “an adequate standard of living… including adequate food, clothing and housing.” Likewise, the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion identifies shelter as a basic prerequisite for health.

A report prepared by CMHA Ontario for the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care which identifies the value of employment and systemic challenges experienced by people with mental health conditions moving into the workforce. Multiple employment pathways currently available in Ontario are profiled and opportunities for program improvement are identified. (April 2012)

Misperceptions about the relationship between mental health, mental illnesses and violence contribute significantly to stigma, discrimination and social exclusion. Studies indicate that people living with mental health conditions are no more likely to engage in violent behaviour than the general population (September, 2011)

In the spring of 2010, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Ontario hosted an employment forum to bring together employment supports providers in Ontario and the government ministries that fund them.

A discussion paper of the Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario and Centre for Addiction and Mental Health which identifies barriers to employment for persons with mental health conditions. Six strategies are identified to improve educational and employment opportunities. (January, 2010)

Mental health related services and supports in rural and northern Ontario communities are less comprehensive, available and accessible than in urban areas. Key considerations are identified, as well as strategies taking place in some communities to address these challenges. (September, 2009)

The introduction of the Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) in Ontario has changed the landscape for planning and delivery of community mental health services and supports. Although Ontario’s approach is unique, there is much that can be learned from 15 years of experience of regionalization in other provinces. This paper provides a snapshot of the other provincial and regional contexts in which community mental health services and supports are delivered.